A TETBURY care home manager has been named in the New Years Honours List for her work protecting residents throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Xyza Macutay-Malloch, manager of Kingsley House in Gumstool Hill, was recognised in the New Year Honours list and was awarded the BEM medal.

Known affectionately as Xam, she says that she thought it was a scam.

“They had to call me multiple times and I didn’t pick up because it seemed suspicious,” she said.

“I was about to block the number because they had called me non-stop for a couple of days.

“Luckily, I decided to answer when I was out Christmas shopping and even after acknowledging the award over the phone I still wasn’t sure it was real.”

Xam came very close to not receiving the award, acknowledging the day before the deadline.

“It was so surreal even after acknowledging it, it took about two days to sink in,” she said.

“I had to re-read the letter several times before it sunk in, it was so unexpected and I was in complete shock.”

Xam is very humble and said that she is proud to have received the award but didn’t want to tell people because she was embarrassed of the recognition.

“I just did what I could to keep everyone safe, I’m more proud of my staff and all the work they put in.

“Receiving this has given me something to hold onto.

“I was so emotional all the stress and being at the brink of giving up was all erased.

“Now the BEM at the end of my name reminds me that everything is going to be ok.”

The list recognises the achievements of extraordinary people across the UK and the medal recognises the contribution of service to the community in a local area.

Usually the medal would be presented to Xam by the Lord-Lieutenant and she would attend a Royal Garden Party. Unfortunately, this will be delayed because of the pandemic but Xam is happy she has something to look forward to.